Nights at the Living Museum

Unlock a world of wonder and discovery at our Living Museum! Join us Friday, April 10, 2026, from 5 – 8 p.m. for an evening of interactive experiences that will immerse you in the world of conservation and the natural world. Experience the zoo like never before, as you ......More

Unlock a world of wonder and discovery at our Living Museum! Join us Friday, April 10, 2026, from 5 – 8 p.m. for an evening of interactive experiences that will immerse you in the world of conservation and the natural world. Experience the zoo like never before, as you explore select animal exhibits at twilight when the zoo is not normally open to the public. Get up close and personal with our animal care staff and discover the magic of the zoo in a whole new light. Our hands-on activities are designed for guests of all ages to learn about the care of animals at the zoo and our conservation efforts both locally and globally. This event is part of the MSU Science Festival Nights at the Museum series, a multi-day event highlighting science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through talks, demonstrations, tours, open houses, and hands-on activities for lifelong learners of all ages. Admission is free and open to all ages, so bring the whole family and join us for an evening of learning and fun! No registration is needed. Visit www.sciencefestival.msu.edu for more information.

Party for the Planet

Party for the Planet at Potter Park Zoo!  Join us on Saturday, April 18, 2026, for Party for the Planet, North America’s largest Earth Day celebration! More than 120 zoos and aquariums across the country are taking part, and you’re invited to explore conservation in a f......More

Party for the Planet at Potter Park Zoo!  Join us on Saturday, April 18, 2026, for Party for the Planet, North America’s largest Earth Day celebration! More than 120 zoos and aquariums across the country are taking part, and you’re invited to explore conservation in a fun, hands-on way—all included with standard zoo admission! What’s Happening? Interactive Activities – Discover ways to make a difference for wildlife and the planet. Educational Stations – Learn about sustainability, conservation, and how small actions can lead to a big impact. What can you do to help the planet? Come celebrate Earth Day with us and find out! DETAILSDate:April 18, 2025 Time:12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Arbor Day Celebration

Celebrate Arbor Day at Potter Park Zoo! Calling all tree lovers and nature enthusiasts! Join us Friday, April 24, 2026, for a day dedicated to celebrating the trees that sustain us and the wildlife that call them home. This event is included with standard zoo admission!......More

Celebrate Arbor Day at Potter Park Zoo! Calling all tree lovers and nature enthusiasts! Join us Friday, April 24, 2026, for a day dedicated to celebrating the trees that sustain us and the wildlife that call them home. This event is included with standard zoo admission! What’s Happening? Interactive Conservation Stations – Learn about tree-dwelling animals, identify different tree species, and discover how you can help protect our forests. Take Home a Tree – Pick up a free tree sapling (while supplies last) and plant your own piece of conservation! Make a Pledge – Commit to small actions that make a big impact on trees and our planet. Mark your calendars and celebrate Arbor Day with us at Potter Park Zoo!

Zoo Nights

Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza features delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and a variety of drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and cr......More

Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza features delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and a variety of drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforgettable moments. Zoo Nights is the ultimate blend of relaxation and exploration, perfectly suited for an evening of fun with friends and family.*Additional drink sample tickets and full-sized beverages are available for purchase.Standard Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free drink sample tickets, food samples, free parking, and an after-hours experience!Designated Driver Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free non-alcoholic beverage tickets, access to our Designated Driver Mocktail Lounge, food samples, free parking, and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.VIP Ticket: $40. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 5 free drink sample tickets, food samples, a VIP exclusive bar, a specialty VIP gift, exclusive entertainment, free parking, and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

World Turtle Day Celebration

Join Us for World Turtle Day at Potter Park Zoo! Celebrate World Turtle Day with us May 22 and dive into the amazing world of turtles! This event is included with standard zoo admission. What’s Happening? Education Stations – Discover fascinating turtle facts, from th......More

Join Us for World Turtle Day at Potter Park Zoo! Celebrate World Turtle Day with us May 22 and dive into the amazing world of turtles! This event is included with standard zoo admission. What’s Happening? Education Stations – Discover fascinating turtle facts, from their unique adaptations to their vital role in ecosystems. Fun Activities – Enjoy interactive experiences, crafts, and games for all ages. Turtles are essential to our planet’s ecosystems, and this special day is all about celebrating and protecting them. Don’t miss out—mark your calendars and visit Potter Park Zoo May 22 for a shell-tastic day of learning and fun!

Potter Park Zoo, Potter Park Zoo, Lansing, MI, 48912, United States

Michigan Waterway Stewards River Cleanup

Join Potter Park Zoo for a River Cleanup! When: Saturday, June 6, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Where: Lansing River Trail (in front of Potter Park Zoo) Calling all nature lovers, conservationists, and community heroes! Help us protect local wildlife and keep our rivers clea......More

Join Potter Park Zoo for a River Cleanup! When: Saturday, June 6, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Where: Lansing River Trail (in front of Potter Park Zoo) Calling all nature lovers, conservationists, and community heroes! Help us protect local wildlife and keep our rivers clean by joining Potter Park Zoo’s River Cleanup Day. We’ll provide the supplies—you bring the enthusiasm! Every piece of trash removed makes a difference for the animals and ecosystems that depend on our waterways. Together, we can make a cleaner, healthier environment for all.  

Potter Park Zoo, Potter Park Zoo, Lansing, MI, 48912, United States

Zoo Nights

Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza boasts delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforget......More

Zoo Nights is where casual meets captivating! This adult-exclusive extravaganza boasts delectable sample delights from nearby eateries and drinks from local breweries, wineries, and more. Explore the zoo after hours, mingling with curious creatures and creating unforgettable moments. Zoo Nights is the ultimate mix of relaxation and exploration, tailor-made for an evening of fun with friends and family.*Additional drink sample tickets and full-sized beverages are available for purchase.Standard Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free drink sample tickets, food samples, free parking, and an after-hours experience!Designated Driver Ticket: $25. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 3 free non-alcoholic beverage tickets, access to our Designated Driver Mocktail Lounge, food samples, free parking and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.VIP Ticket: $40. This ticket includes: 1 reusable sample cup, 5 free drink sample tickets, food samples, a VIP exclusive bar, a specialty VIP gift, exclusive entertainment, free parking, and an after-hours experience! Only 50 tickets are available.

Potter Park Zoo, Potter Park Zoo, Lansing, MI, 48912, United States

Twilight Adventures

Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6-9 p.m. as you embark on a scavenger hunt, following clues along the way, and learn from our conservation stations. Engage in fun games and activi......More

Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6-9 p.m. as you embark on a scavenger hunt, following clues along the way, and learn from our conservation stations. Engage in fun games and activities under the stars while enjoying delicious s’mores and concession snacks! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the zoo after hours and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Get ready for an exciting twilight adventure at Potter Park Zoo!  

Potter Park Zoo, Potter Park Zoo, Lansing, MI, 48912, United States

4th of July: Military Members Receive Free Admission!

Happy Independence Day! The zoo will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for all to enjoy! This year we’d like to say thank you by offering free admission to Potter Park Zoo to all United States Military. Standard admission rates for the rest of your party. We can’t wait to s......More

Happy Independence Day! The zoo will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for all to enjoy! This year we’d like to say thank you by offering free admission to Potter Park Zoo to all United States Military. Standard admission rates for the rest of your party. We can’t wait to see you at the zoo!

Twilight Adventures

Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6-9 p.m. as you embark on a scavenger hunt, following clues along the way, and learn from our conservation stations. Engage in fun games and activi......More

Experience a magical evening at Potter Park Zoo during our Twilight Adventures! Join us for an adventure-filled night from 6-9 p.m. as you embark on a scavenger hunt, following clues along the way, and learn from our conservation stations. Engage in fun games and activities under the stars while enjoying delicious s’mores and concession snacks! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the zoo after hours and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Get ready for an exciting twilight adventure at Potter Park Zoo!  

Potter Park Zoo, Potter Park Zoo, Lansing, MI, 48912, United States